American Flag Guidelines

How to Display and Care for the American Flag

Photo by Thinkstock

Share:

Rate this Article:

Average: 4(297 votes)

Many of our readers ask about U.S. flag rules and regulations. On June 22, 1942, Congress passed a joint resolution, later amended on December 22, 1942, that encompassed what has come to be known as the U.S. Flag Code. Here are highlights:

Perhaps the most important rule involves how citizens should behave around the Stars and Stripes: The flag of the United States is the emblem of our identity as a separate nation, which the United States of America has been for more than 200 years. Therefore, citizens should stand at attention and salute when their flag is passing in a parade or being hoisted or lowered.

How to Properly Display the Flag

The custom is to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on flagstaffs in the open, but it may be displayed at night upon special occasions to produce a patriotic effect.

When the flag is hung vertically on a wall, window or door the Union (blue) should be to the observer’s left. When the flag is hung either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the Union (blue field) should be to the observer’s left.

The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

It should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement.

The flag should be displayed on all days, especially on

New Year’s Day, January 1
Inauguration Day, January 20
Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, third Monday in January
Lincoln’s Birthday, February 12
Washington’s Birthday, third Monday in February
Easter Sunday (variable)
Mother’s Day, second Sunday in May
Armed Forces Day, third Saturday in MayMemorial Day (half-staff until noon), the last Monday in MayFlag Day, June 14
Father’s Day, third Sunday in JuneIndependence Day, July 4
Labor Day, first Monday in September
Constitution Day, September 17
Columbus Day, second Monday in October
Navy Day, October 27Veterans Day, November 11
Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November
Christmas Day, December 25
and such other days as may be proclaimed by the President of the United States
the birthdays of States (date of admission)
and on State holidays.

It should be displayed at every public institution and in or near every polling place on election days, and at schoolhouses during school days.

In a procession the flag is to the right of another flag or, if in a line of other flags, in front of the center of that line.

The flag should not be displayed on a float except from a staff, nor draped over the hood, top, sides, or back of a vehicle.

When the flag is displayed on a vehicle, the staff should be fixed firmly to the chassis.

No other flag should be placed above the flag of the United States or, if on the same level, to its right.

The United Nations flag may not be displayed above or in a position of superior prominence to the United States flag except at United Nations Headquarters.

The flag displayed with another against a wall, from crossed staffs, should be on the right (the flag’s own right), and its staff should be in front of the other staff.

It should be at the center and the highest point when displayed with a group of state flags.

When flags of states, cities, etc., are flown on the same halyard, the United States flag should be at the peak.

When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height, and the flag of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered last.

When displayed from a staff projecting from a building, the union [upper inner corner] should be at the peak of the staff.

When it is displayed otherwise than by being flown from a staff, it should be displayed flat, whether indoors or out; or so suspended that its folds fall as freely as though the flag were staffed.

When displayed over a street, it should be suspended vertically with the union to the north in an east and west street, or to the east in a north and south street.

On a platform, it should be above and behind the speaker, with the union uppermost and to the observer’s left.

When displayed from a staff in a church or auditorium, the flag should occupy the position of honor and be placed at the speaker’s right as he faces the audience.

When flown at half-staff, the flag should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to half-staff position. It should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. Half-staff is one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff. The flag must be flown at half-staff on all buildings on the death of any officer listed below, for the period indicated:

For the President or a former President: 30 days from the date of death.

For the Vice President, the Chief Justice or a retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives: 10 days from the day of death.

For an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, a member of the Cabinet, a former Vice President, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives:From the day of death until interment.

For a United States Senator, Representative, Delegate, or the Resident Commissioner from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico: the flag should be flown in the metropolitan area of the District of Columbia, on the day of death and on the following day; in the state, congressional district, territory, or commonwealth of such Senator, Representative, Delegate, or Commissioner, from the day of death until interment.

For a Governor: Within the state, territory, or possession, from the day of death until interment.

When the flag is used to cover a casket, the union should be at the head and over the left shoulder.

How Not to Display the Flag

The flag should not be dipped to any person or thing.

It should never be displayed with the union down, save as a signal of dire distress.

It should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water, or merchandise.

It should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free.

It should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored so that it might be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way.

It should never be used as covering for a ceiling.

It should never have anything placed on it.

The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose, nor embroidered on cushions or handkerchiefs, printed on paper napkins or boxes, nor used as any portion of a costume.

When the flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

I have a three flag mount on

I have a three flag mount on the rear of my motorcycle. I fly the American flag in the center and higher than the other two flags. The other flags that I fly are the POW-MIA flag and the different branches of the armed services. What is the proper positioning of these flags? I also fly a flag for the Combat Veterans Association.

Hi Gery, if you get the

Hi Gery, if you get the answehere please email me , looks like we have the same flag mount on our bikes, the only thing I have found is The American flag in the center, the army does have regulation that its flag should be to the right from the viewers side and mia to the left . but dont qoute me on this

Hi, Gerry, and Fernando

Hi, Gerry, and Fernando below: "Higher than" when in the middle is perfect. When a number of flags are flown at the same height on the back of a bike, then the U.S. flag should sit on the "passenger" side. The flag always rides to its own right on a forward-moving vehicle. Thanks for asking and caring!

I was told that when the flag

I was told that when the flag is at half staff because of a death. that it should fly separately from the state and school flags? my school had it at half staff but have Ohio state flag under it and then the school flag.

Hi, Jackline: Regardless of

Hi, Jackline: Regardless of why a U.S. flag is at half-staff (death or otherwise), it does not need to fly separately from other flags. That being said, a lot depends on looks when other flags are below it. If the flagpole is short and the lower flags would seem unnaturally close to the ground (although if they are proportional to the pole, this shouldn't happen), then sometimes it is best to just remove one or more of the lower flags and temporarily fly the U.S. flag at half-staff alone. It is not disrespectful to the other flags to temporarily remove them, as the U.S. flag (and, conceptually, "what the U.S. flag wants to do") supersedes them anyway. Thanks for asking!

I am part of a law

I am part of a law enforcement honor guard. Recently at a change of command ceremony we were asked to post the colors for the event. I argued with the organizers of the event that honorees chairs should not be placed in a position whereas the colors in procession march behind the honorees' group. I felt that it is disrespectful to place those chairs in a more prominent position than the US colors. This caused the group to essentially have their backs to the honor guard carrying the US flag at the beginning of the ceremony. Please advise as to the proper etiquette for this type of situation.

Hi, Jose: This is an

Hi, Jose: This is an excellent -- and complicated -- question to answer. Thank you for caring so much to ask. Without knowing your exact setup this is difficult to respond to, but in general terms, you are correct: The colors should not be presented to the backs of people. However, there are many instances when this happens because of practical considerations, such as when colors are brought in from the back of a hall up the aisle or when because of physical constraints of the stage they are brought in behind a row of people on the stage rather than in front of them. The most important things are that the colors be treated with respect and placed properly for the ceremony itself. Thanks again!

We purchased a home and we

We purchased a home and we have a flag pole with the American flag flying. It has recently sustained a noticeable tear. I know we need to take the flag down, but what do we do with the torn flag? Also, is it disrespectful to have a flag pole but not fly a flag? Not that we do not want to, I am just thinking of the mean time of taking the current torn one down, if it is disrespectful to have no flag flying until we can replace it. Thank you for your help!

I have a few questions. My

I have a few questions. My g/f is St. Lucian and we want to fly both flags on our house on either side of our garage on a fixed flag pole. If facing the house/garage from the stree, which side should which flag be? Also, do we need to have lights in our yard aimed at the flag as to keep it lit up at night or do we have to take down the flag every night? (this is one of those flags that's on a stick that you insert into a fixed flag holder that you drill onto the side of your house). Thanks!

For your questions, you might

For your questions, you might check the actual U.S. code: See Title 4, Chapter 1, sections 6 and 7:http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/U...
Based on this, it appears that for a residence in the United States, the U.S. and St. Lucian flags should be flown on different staffs, be of the same size and height, and the U.S. flag should be on the left as you are facing the garage (which would be on the U.S. flag's own right).
As for what to do after sunset, the code says, "It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness." So, it appears that you can either take the flags down each day at sunset, or install lights to illuminate them over night.
Please note, too, that if you have an all-weather flag, it is OK to keep it out in inclement weather. Otherwise, you should take it in during precipitation.
Perhaps the following might also help:http://www.united-states-flag....http://www.senate.gov/referenc...

Hello I have two questions.

Hello I have two questions. It's early but, I was wondering am I able to fly the original 13 Stars Old Glory for the 4th of July Celebration? Any my second question is I have a telescoping flag post that was installed. I have no idea how to fly the flag half mass. Am I still able to fly the flag or do I need to take it down. The flag is always at the top no matter how high or low I put the sections on the pole.

I could not find direct

I could not find direct mention of this usage in the Flag Code. There might be state or local laws concerning this, however. You might check at your town office. If this building is a private residential building, for non-commercial/non-advertising purposes, it might be OK, as long as the painted image is done respectfully, and, if painted horizontally, the union (blue section) is on the top left as you look at the image. Also, no other words, designs, or items should be painted or placed over the flag image.
The code says that the U.S. flag should not be used as advertising or as a "receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything," nor should it be printed/painted on temporary articles that will be discarded (such as napkins), or on wearing apparel (with a few exceptions).
For more information, you might be interested in:http://www.senate.gov/referenc...

Recently my grandmother

Recently my grandmother passed down to me my grandfathers flag in its flag case from his memorial service 8 years ago. Would it be disrespectful to take the flag out of the case and hang it up on the wall in my music studio as a memorial to him? Just want to do the right thing. Thanks

My husband and I bought a

My husband and I bought a double wide in a 55 and over mobile park in Florida, 5 years ago
Each year I buy a new American and Canadian flag to fly... one on each side, in flag pole holders attached to my house. My Lanai entrance faces the street where I put the American and the Canadian flies at the car port. same height. Is this OK?

Hi, Heather: It is OK to fly

Hi, Heather: It is OK to fly them at the same height, provided that the U.S. flag is on the left when viewed from the street or when viewed from the side of the building from which they are flown. And thanks for being so respectful as to get new ones each year--you do both countries proud!

Hi, my question is: is it ok

Hi, my question is: is it ok or disrespectful to drape a flag over an empty small casket to represent the fallen soldiers for a parade that honors veterans and fallen soldiers? Just wanting to do the right thing.

Hi, Brent: This is a great

Hi, Brent: This is a great question--thanks for asking! What you suggest is technically not proper. The solution would be to fly a small flag (such as the type on a dowel that you wave) vertically at the head of the little casket (even attach the rod to the short top side/end of the box if you want).

My father recently passed

My father recently passed away and I was presented with his flag, I have purchased
a case. I have his military picture and a rosary would it be proper to display this in the case with the flag? And is it o.k. to have his name and the branch etched on the glass of the flag case? Thank you.

Hi, Maxine: Putting things

Hi, Maxine: Putting things inside a flag case with the flag is sort of a gray area. As long as the flag remains the primary focus of respect, all is OK, and we have no doubt that you will place your father's photo and rosary in such a manner, so go for it. And yes, it is OK to etch the glass with the info you suggest (but just for the record, it is not OK to etch the glass with just anything). Thanks for asking!

Hi, Matthue: Yes, it is!

I would like to display our

I would like to display our American Flag at an indoor event and would like to find out if we could starch the flag so that it stands out from the flag pole (like flying in a breeze). I have looked at many different sites to find out if this could be done or if this would be disrespectful to our country and I haven't found any information on if this is o.k. or not. Again, I would like to honor our country and service men & women by having this flag at our event, but I also want to present it properly.

Thanks for your help.

Hi, Jeffry: This is a tricky

Hi, Jeffry: This is a tricky question that calls for a somewhat mystical answer, so please bear with us. Is it OK to starch a U.S. flag? Yes. Is it advisable to starch the livin' daylights out of it for the purpose of having it "fly" flat? Well ... that may be another matter. While it is certainly true that we display our flag in different ways, e.g., from a staff, on a wall, folded in a triangle in a case, and so forth, it might be said that the "purest" form of display -- if that term can even be used -- is on a staff, gently billowing in the breeze (a la Star-Spangled Banner, although that was certainly shot up quite a bit). A clue can be found in the flag guidelines at top, in the phrase "aloft and flying freely" (the key word being "freely"). This is why you sometimes see fans directed at flags. But to starch it into a boardlike banner, while technically OK, would probably not be ideal. Another thing to consider is that when people viewed such a flag, would their attention be drawn to its beauty and significance, as it always should be? Or to: How on Earth did they get it to fly like that? In any event, you get an A+ for asking this and even thinking about it -- thanks!

What you could do is "banner

What you could do is "banner hang:" the flag, but horizontally - contrary to the usual vertical hang, banner style.
What you would do is hang the flag along it's top with a dowel, thick enough to fit through a sewn pocket (some flags come with thes pockets pre-sewn) - add extra white material for the pcoekt, done merely fold the existing dflag material to make a pocket!
Then hang the dowel from each end of the dowel from nylon, 50 pound test fishline vertially. Then mount a "mast" next to the field side of the flag, to make it "look" as if it were hanging off the mast.
The ambient air movemtn in the room should give it just enough freeness to not be too distracting.
No more distracting than if hung vertically - which , is actully my preference here, as that does not get as much "awe" attention from a guessing crowd. Field to the flag's own right, recall!

I recently sang at the

I recently sang at the funeral of a veteran. Standing behind the casket, which was draped in the American flag, I stood before singing and placed lyrics of the song on the back side where it wasn't visible to the congregation, at the foot of the casket, as there was no podium or any other thing, save the casket, at the front of the funeral parlor. At the burial, I was told by a man " Don't you ever " lay " anything on the American flag again". Just wondering, was this a big deal? I left it there only until I finished singing, then removed it.

Hi, Darrell: Like beauty, the

Hi, Darrell: Like beauty, the "bigness" of a "deal" lies in the eyes of the beholder. Your tutor was technically correct, and no doubt his intentions were good, but he could have recognized that yours were, too -- and found a gentler way to impart his knowledge. And, while it is important to follow flag rules, it is often of value (and consolation) to consider possible extenuating circumstances and questions related thereto, such as: Would the departed veteran have minded? So although you did wrong, you also did a lot of right. Thank you for that and for this question.

Hi! My boyfriend is currently

Hi! My boyfriend is currently serving over seas. He is in the Air Force, and told me before they leave they can get flags flown behind the jets for family and friends if they want. I really want one but don't have a flag pole or any place to hang it. Are flag cases specifically for flags for fallen members? What are the guidelines for keeping a flown flag in a case?

Hi, Kelly Marie: Thank you

Hi, Kelly Marie: Thank you for this important question and for caring enough to ask it. Flag cases can be used for any properly folded and protected U.S. flag, not just one honoring the fallen. The key thing is to always treat and store the flag reverently and protect it fully, as it has protected you. Incidentally, you do not need to spend a lot of money on a formal flag case, especially if you will not be displaying. Any box that is clean and in good condition is OK -- for example, a jewelry box if it were big enough (do not bend the folded triangle flag) or a wooden case from a cutlery set. But treat the flag and its case with the utmost of care and respect, and you will always be doing the U.S. -- and USAF! -- proud.

Nine feet high? Well, try

Nine feet high? Well, try lighting it for night, or have a 6' ladder handy each time you wnat to take it down at night. A tree is a fine "pole", but setting a pulley and halyard to it, that would be odd.

DONT (out of a respect for nature) mount the flag mount to the tree directly with nails - instead use two clear tree straps (used in commerciaand residential tree lighting systems, very inexeposnive), one at the top of the mount, one below, and make it taught! Check the taughtness once per year, so as not to bind the tree growth.

The honor guard folded the

The honor guard folded the flag that was over my husband's casket. When they were finished, they presented the flag to me. I placed the flag in a wooden flag shadow box under covered glass. What I did not know was that there is a small amount of red showing in the display case.

When my family members who served in the military come to my house, they salute my husband's flag because of the red that is showing.

Should I take the shadow box somewhere to have my husband's flag re-folded?

I've been told it is disrespectful to have any red showing. I've also been told that the red signifies the blood of our servicemen and women. I don't know what to do.

Thank you for your advice.

My son's father died and his

My son's father died and his funeral was today. It was pouring and the folded flag is soaking wet. My son is carrying the flag with him everywhere but we are concerned it won't dry. I know it can't be unfolded. Are there any suggestions on how to dry it so we can put it a case for display? Any suggestions would be great. Thank you :)

Hi, Jessi: We are so sorry to

Hi, Jessi: We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Although it may be a little late in this particular case, please note that in every single consideration given to Old Glory under any circumstances, the paramount concern is respect and care. So you certainly should feel free to unfold the flag to dry it and even clean it if you see fit, and then refold it -- provided, obviously, that you treat it reverently at all times. Thanks for caring so much to ask!

What in gods name is wrong

What in gods name is wrong with America.The Maryland School district wants to take our national Holidays off the calendar.They want to do it because they don't want to offend Muslims.Tell them to go the Hell back home if they can't conform to Americas customs.It's supposed to be GOD BLESS AMERICA.

I love this country, which I

I love this country, which I have made my home. I have lived in the United States for over twenty years. I come to you with a request for assistance / clarity. I fly a French flag (as an expression of my heritage) on an angled flag pole on my side of a multi-unit condo. My neighbors proudly fly the American flag. My flag is to the right of theirs as observed from the street, and flies at the same height. The American flag is larger than mine (don't know if that's relevant). This past week, someone decided to take my flag and pole down... I found them on the ground. I cleaned it and put it back up. Today I came back to the flag and pole placed on my porch. I find this really disrespectful, unneighborly, and most of all: cowardly. I don't see a reason why I wouldn't be free to fly my flag. I love America and want to be sensitive and respectful, and thought I was... Am I mistaken in putting my flag back up? Thanks so much, I hope that your expertise will allow me to do the right thing here.

Dear Michigan Resident,
If

Dear Michigan Resident,
If you have read the flag etiquette on this site, you will see that when displaying the American flag along with other flags, it is to take preeminence. It is not the size of the flag that matters, but its position in that display.
Even though YOU were not displaying another flag along with an American flag, my guess is whoever removed your flag viewed it as some sort of challenge. Those of us who went to school in the 20th century were taught that American flag represents our entire nation. Many Americans take this seriously and view any disrespect to the Flag as a slap in the face to the American people. Others see our constitutionally-protected right of free speech as preeminent over the Flag itself.
I am sorry that whoever saw fit to remove your flag did not have the courage to speak to you about it, but felt free to violate your personal property instead. (You assume it was your American-flag-flying neighbor, but you can't be sure since they did not identify themselves.) Ideally, you should be able to talk to your neighbors about what happened, but not knowing their character, I hesitate to advise you. I hate the thought of you being intimidated into curtailing your right to display a part of your heritage. That is not the American way at all.

Dear Melsled,
Thanks for your

Dear Melsled,
Thanks for your reply.
I'd like to clarify a few points that may not have been evident from my previous post. First, I did my 'due diligence' when raising my flag for the third time. I took the phrase from above (No other flag should be placed above the flag of the United States or, if on the same level, to its right) to mean that I was technically in the clear. Secondly, I really don't believe my American-flag-flying neighbors took it down (we are pretty close). I hope this helps...
I am more concerned with common sense and etiquette than technicality. If, however; my flag were to in some way violate the flag code, I would take it down. I believe in the constitutional right to free speech. I also hold a personal belief that free speech ends when it harms others. I don't want to cause anyone distress while expressing myself.
Interestingly enough, I feel more free to fly my flag in the United States than in France (rare are those countries that exhibit their nation's flag at home...). I was reveling in that privilege until this incident made me rethink the entire act.
I believe I will continue to fly it, unless someone identifies themself and tells me how they feel...
Thanks again for your response!

To say that size of the flags

To say that size of the flags is of no improt is incorrect. The main point is that the US flag should be most prominent, and that would be in forward placement, height, size, centered, or to the viewer's left. However, since YOU are flying your own single flag, ther is no placement relevance in this case. Your flag, being alone on your proerty, has no relevance to a US flag flown on someone else's property. They are wrong for tresspassing on your prerty for any reason, without your consent. They should be fine with the size of their larger, US flag in this case and should not be worrying about your single flag, at all.

That said, why NOT fly your own US flag, withj the French flag, and in the proper manner? THat mighjt quell your neighbors' concerns.

I wish somebody would STOP

I wish somebody would STOP the U S ARMY's DISRESPECTFUL wearing of MY FLAG on their right shoulder!!! (with Union on RIGHT)
The "lie" they tell is that it is okay because it "symbolizes" Forward Into Battle.

As per several websites on

"The blue field of stars should always be in the highest position of honor. When viewing the flag on a wall, the highest position of honor is the upper left when displayed horizontally, and at the top (upper left) when displayed vertically. When displayed on a "moving object" like a person or vehicle, the highest position of honor is the front, and not the rear; so the field of blue should be displayed to the front.

The same principle applies to the eagle rank of Colonels (or Navy Captains); the eagles' heads are always worn facing forward when worn on the uniform, as the forward-facing eagle is the position of honor within heraldry.

In application, then, flags are displayed on moving vehicles with the blue-star field always displayed towards the front of the vehicle. In this way, the flag appears to be blowing in the wind as the vehicle travels forward (flags are always attached to their flag poles on the blue field side). If the flag were not reversed on the right hand side of the vehicle, the vehicle might appear to be moving backwards (or "retreating").

The next time you visit an airport, notice that the US-flagged aircraft also have a "reverse" flag painted on the right side of the aircraft.

For flag patches worn on uniforms, the same principle applies: the blue star field always faces towards the front, with the red and white stripes behind. Think of the flag, not as a patch, but as a loose flag attached to the Soldier's arm like a flag pole. As the Soldier moves forward, the red and white stripes will flow to the back.

As the proponent for standardization and authorization of heraldry items within the Department of Defense, the Institute of Heraldry addresses the apparent oddity of the reverse flag patch by stating, "When worn on the right sleeve, it is considered proper to reverse the design so that the union is at the observer's right to suggest that the flag is flying in the breeze as the wearer moves forward."

Hi, Chris: Thank you for

Hi, Chris: Thank you for spotting this. The Flag Code is entirely voluntary, so there is no real enforcement. From a technical standpoint, it is OK for a foreign flag to fly at the same height as the U.S. flag, as long as the U.S. flag is to the right as it is being presented. In other words, if you are standing on the road looking at the dealership, the U.S. flag should be on the left. Of course, if the U.S. flag is on the end, this works only for the first pair. The next U.S. flag becomes out of compliance because the first Mexican flag would be to the right of it as presented. A good compromise might be to lower all of the Mexican flags slightly, like one flag's width. We would craft a short and very cordial letter asking that the dealership "please consider" changing this, have 10 or so others sign it, and bring it to the Sales Manager. Good luck!

Hi, Mark: Of course, there is

Hi, Mark: Of course, there is the large school of traditional etiquette thought that says that wearing any hat under any circumstances indoors is improper. That being said, if a hat is to be worn, it is OK to wear it indoors in the presence of the U.S. flag. The exception to this occurs when the flag is displayed as part of a procession, such as being brought down an aisle, in which case the hat is doffed when the flag passes by. Thanks for asking! (And just for the record: We don't wear our hat indoors.)

Board Members in an Home

Board Members in an Home Owners Assoc (55+) have directed management to lower the flag to half staff(entrance to the property, outdoors) whenever a resident may pass away. (For some, not all). This seems to diminish the honor for when it is ordered by the government. Shoud they stop this practice?

Hi, Larry: Thank you for the

Hi, Larry: Thank you for the excellent question and sorry for our belatedness. If possible next time, the best thing to do is tie a black streamer to the top left corner of the flag and keep it raised.

I have one 20foot pole by its

I have one 20foot pole by its self in a section of my yard on top of a large mound of dirt with plants and flowers and in the same yard approx 80feet away I have 2 flag poles mounted ontop of a deck one is 20feet with 2 sports teams flags and the pole next to it is 22 or 24feet with 2 other sports teams flags on it also. I dont want to have other flags near my US flag and I dont want to fly another flag with the us flag.I want to fly my 4 chicago sports teams together.Is it fine if the US flag is lower at another place in the yard if its alone and not near oyher flags?

Hi, Andrew: This is all about

Hi, Andrew: This is all about respect for the flag -- which, by asking this question, you show that you have. Thank you. Eighty feet is a little tight for this type of "overshadowing" of the U.S. flag by other flags/pennants of any type, but another thing to consider is that much as you Chicago fans may think otherwise, Chicago sports teams aren't sovereign nations unto themselves. Another thing to bear in mind is that by setting the U.S. flag apart and raising it on a beautified, landscaped mound, you are giving it the preferential treatment that it deserves. We would say that you are good to go.

So My dad passed and I got

So My dad passed and I got his flag I have a flag case but I was trying to find out if i can hang it on the wall point down so i can use it as a shelf for his picture? what is the etiquette for putting flag boxes on the wall? Please help.

Hi, Leigh Ann: Thank you to

Hi, Leigh Ann: Thank you to your father for his service! And thank YOU for caring enough to ask this question -- the answer to which is complicated. The bottom line here (well, sort of) is that this flag has been properly folded and is now protected by a case. Nothing can ever be placed on the flag. However, here we are talking about the case, so your usage would be OK. That being said, your memorial display still needs to be placed in a well-lit (but not necessarily specially lit) position of respect (not that you wouldn't). For example, it would be inappropriate for it to be down near the floor or surrounded by felt pennants from your favorite vacation spots. And, although this goes without saying, the photo and case need to be regularly dusted. Go for it. No doubt somebody is pretty proud of you right now for even thinking of this.

Is there a rule of etiquette

Is there a rule of etiquette or published code for flying the flag at night? For example (and to the point), is it required to have a light shining on it? I believe it is code, but I cannot find it. If that is the case, can you please cite the code, as I'm trying to get my homeowners assoc. to get the flag lit at night. Thanks!

I am a cub Master and s

I am a cub Master and s scoutmaster with about 90 boys, I want to teach them right, when lined up with the us flag in front of the line. Where does the colored guard stand in front or behind, I have seen it both ways

Hi, Brian: This is an

Hi, Brian: This is an excellent question! Thanks for being so thorough and so patriotic. There are always at least two color guards who guard the flag bearer(s). When they are in a column, one guard goes first. Then comes the U.S. flag. Then any other flag(s). Then the second color guard. The idea is that the flag(s) are guarded on all (well, two) sides. Thanks again to the Leader of the Pack!

When flown with flags of

When flown with flags of states, communities, or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor - to its own right.
..The other flags may be smaller but none may be larger.
..No other flag ever should be placed above it.
So the rule is no other flag higher than old glory, same height is ok

Our flag should always be at

Our flag should always be at the same height of any country we are not at war with. For diplomatic reasons, you could probably extend that to every country. Same height.
States are different. Stars and Stripes should fly above every state (although someone here said Texas can be same height, but I don't know if that's true.)

Hi, Ben,
The short answer is

Hi, Ben,
The short answer is no. The only source that we know of to address this is the National Flag Foundation (http://www.usflag.org/nffhalfs...). According to this org, only the U.S. President and, under specific circumstances, the governer of a U.S. state, territory, or possession can the U.S. flag be flown at half staff. On this link page are cited several "good-faith misunderstandings"—examples of government officials who issued such an order. According to the org (NFF), these individuals did not have the proper authority. So, again, it would not be appropriate in the situation you describe.

I work at Walmart and they

I work at Walmart and they have display the American flag along with the state flag indoors and its doesn't look right. When you look at it the American flag its on it left of the state flag and where the stars and strips are pointed west and i thought the stars always pointed to the north star never away from the north star. Am I right about this that the stars are always pointed to the north star???

Hi, Robert: When flags are on

Hi, Robert: When flags are on a wall, they can be considered the same as standing on a stage facing us. In that case, the U.S. flag should always be on the right side of the presenters, and thus on the left side of the stage or wall as we face it. The U.S. flag's blue field should always be on the left as we look at it, regardless of where the North Star is. Thanks for caring!

I have an issue with a guy

I have an issue with a guy living down my street. Whenever he displays his flag it's pinned up over his garage door with the union to the observers right. Which is backwards. I printed out a proper way to display an American flag 101 from the Internet, along with a friendly note. Next holiday, flag was back up, again backwards. So I knocked on his door. His wife answered and I asked why do they always display their flag backwards. Her reply was "it's torn and can only be displayed that way." My response was that it would be pinned up by the same two points, just the flag turned around. And I also added that if it's torn then it's considered unserviceable and should be properly disposed of. Her response was to slam the door in my face. Next holiday he did display his flag the proper way. But that was short lived. Because this past holiday it was back up backwards. So I happen to drive by and he was outside. So I stopped and said "hey your flag is backwards" he said there was nothing wrong with his flag, you see the flag flying over the Capitol building blowing one way, and blows the other way. I tried to explain to him yes on a flagpole but on a building the union should be to the observers left. He just said get lost and he walked inside his garage. Aggravating to say the least!! The guy is a total ignorant idiot. As I am an ex Air Force a Honor Guard and 10 yrs in the military. I sure do wish there was some way I could get it through his thick skull that he is wrong.

Maybe try building a

Maybe try building a relationship with your neighbors first before telling them how to do things in their own home, even if it is visible. Even though you are right and noble for trying to protect the flag, they obviously don't have the same value for it as you. But hey- at least they are flying the flag! Most people just don't like being told what to do. Work on the relationship first, then if you can build trust with them, they might listen to your story of service and understand why it is so important. Good luck!

Your post began

Your post began with..."Here's what Congress advised for the use of the U.S. flag in a joint resolution dated June 22, 1942." This is not true. Your post goes on to say when the flag shoud be displayed. It includes MLK's birthday. Noooo he was not a black icon in 1942.

Thanks for the good catch,

I work at a company that has

I work at a company that has an american flag on a 30 ft pole.I have heard that the US gov changed the rule on lighting on the flag at dusk to dawn because of light pollution & that a light is not needed flying the flag at night. is this true or just a rumour ?

The ruling is, now, due to

The ruling is, now, due to that law being passed, is that any flags may be lit, but from below their lowest hanging point, and so as not to cuase direct light to spill into eye view from the ground.

Light poluution, so called, is NOT when light bounces off clouds or dust or smog in the air. Light poulltion, per the law, is light DIRECTLY aimed at other areas other than the areas to be lit (just think, light on opoles behind your house from the nearby baseball park - any of that light directly visible to you on your proerrty cviolates the Light Polution Law)

I have been attempting to

I have been attempting to display "Old Glory" at my condo complex respectfully yet unsuccessfully since last year. First, I was told the display was disrespectful by our Canadian Board of Directors President. Without the guidance of your wonderful guidelines, I was forced to take the flag down. Now I'm being told I must ask permission to display the flag to honor my deceased WWII veteran father and my disabled Purple Heart, Silver Star, Vietnam vet Ranger brother. Flags displayed on my front door will suffice for my display urges. Needless to say, I am livid! I've been leaving the flag up at night as it has a street light which shines on it until I can find a sponsor to hard wire a light into our electric system. I was told that I had to write a special letter requesting permission to

I am having the same

I am having the same discomfort when I was told by condo association to only display my flag during special occasions or holidays. I am a 20 year veteran and feel I have the right display my flag anytime. Many service man and women died in keeping the American flag flying. I WANTED TO KEEP MY FLAG FLYING.

You have the right and law

You have the right and law behind you to dospaly your flag every day of the year if you want. The question is though, local authority CAN make a rule for pole color and hieght and whther or not a porfessional flag pole installer must be used, this makes snese. Butm, if your pole is up to code (and a code must exost), they may NEVER tell you when or when not to display your flag, that is reserved for your State Governor and the US President - only.

Is it necessary when

Is it necessary when nonmilitary personnel carry the flag to be posted prior to the pledge of allegiance and national anthem, that they wear gloves, white or any other color? Some members of the Emblem Club (whose emblem is the American Flag) have indicated that it is required to wear the gloves when posting or removing the flags.

Not at all true, however, the

Not at all true, however, the idea of wearing any gloves is to promote a clean flag. That would be the ONLY reason to insist on gloves of any kind, while touching the flag. If only touching the halyard or pole, gloves are NOT required.

I see many decorating sites

I see many decorating sites now have pillows made with small American flags. I was raised (active in scouting and daughter of a Korean War veteran) that this was disrespectful. How should I respond to these young "decorators"?

Is it disrespectful to hang a

Is it disrespectful to hang a burial size flag indoors, framed on the wall. Is there anything wrong with it being tacked with brass nails all around the flag to the frame. This would be for inside a Borough Town meeting room.

Why not? Your reference?

The right design for 3 flag

The right design for 3 flag poles- I would like to place 3 flag poles out in front of my business. What is the proper way to display 3 poles? I am getting 1- 35' and 2- 30' poles. Is it OK to place the three in an inverted design (triangle) with the American Flag in back on the 35' pole and the state on the left and POW on the right on both the 30' poles?

Displaying the flag (on a

Displaying the flag (on a base and pole) in an auditorium with a raised platform, if the flag is on the platform it should be on the speaker's right side. If the flag is positioned on the floor (audience level - not on the platform) does it go to the audience's right side?

I thought if flags are left

I thought if flags are left up at night they are supposed to be lit. A Veterans monument in WI has the flags of the US Army, Navy, Air Force along with American Flag, but no lights on them at night. Is this correct?

Hi, Jane: It's incorrect, but

Hi, Jane: It's incorrect, but when we see something like this, we tend to go with the "it's the thought that counts" line of critique and infer, rightly or wrongly, that the infraction comes from lack of knowledge (and/or lighting funds) and not disrespect. After all, Badgers have always been a patriotic bunch.

2 service people complained

2 service people complained that our flag hanging on an angled pole off of our porch did not have a spotlight on it at night...of course, I did a Google search for this protocol and what I found is that the flag "must have sufficient enough lighting" at night so that "a casual passerby can tell it is the American flag." So, in our case, the porch light casts enough light (as do the street lights) so anyone driving or walking by can clearly tell its Old Glory.

Here's a (two-fingered)

Here's a (two-fingered) salute to you, Pack 140! Thanks for checkin' in. We were in Den 3, Pack 254, back in the day, but there were only about 15 stars on the flag then, wethinks. Yes, a flag at half-mast does have to come in during inclement weather. But did you know that this isn't always necessarily true? The reason the U.S. flag needs to come in during bad weather is not so that it doesn't get wet -- it's so that it doesn't get damaged. So if you have a rugged, weather-resistant flag, it's OK to fly it in the rain (but be prepared to answer questions!). Incidentally, the reason the flag needs to be lit at night has nothing to do with night and day and the clock, but rather with darkness. Thus, if it gets really dark and black outside during a storm, you need to light up your weather-resistant flag. There! We've done our best to do our duty to Pack 140 and our country, and to help other people (if you know what we mean ;) ).

Question: I work remote and

Question: I work remote and our facility has one flag pole with Old Glory up top and the State flag below. When the State requests everyone to fly half staff, is it appropriate to bring them both to half staff? I have no good way to separate the two. Which is the 'least incorrect' ? Both all the way up even though the State wishes to be half staff... or Both at half staff?

In this case only, as they

In this case only, as they are both on the same mast, yes, they both come to half mast, but that will make the Stae flag quite low on the pole! However, IF you could lower the US flag separetly , DO SO, Never lower a STae flag to half mast on purpose or reason, this not allowed. The Stae Gove may only decree a half mast of the US FLAG ONLY, not the State flag (by itself).

That said, in no case, on the same mast, shall any flag be higher than the US flag. If the state flag was on it's own mast, it can stay higher than the Half-mast US flag when HAlf mast is requested by the Gov or Pres.

? I have been informed by a

? I have been informed by a retired LTC that the American flag and the state flag when being flown on two seperate poles in front of a public school, the state flag is suppose to be flown 12" below the American flag. I have never heard this before and I would sure loke to know if I have been wrong for so many years.

When the U.S. flag is flown

When the U.S. flag is flown with flags of states on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor, which is to its own right. No other flag ever should be placed above the U.S. flag. The state flag may be smaller but never larger. The flag of the United States is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.

One NEVER flies the national

One NEVER flies the national flag in inclement weather (rain, snow, sleet, hail). It is not "OK" to do so. An 'all weather' flag means the materials it is constructed from (fade resistant, wind-related).

This information is incorrect

This information is incorrect as having previous personal experience of being in charge of determining the raising, lowering and type of flag to be posted on a military instillation I can tell you that during inclement weather an all weather flag is the only type of flag that can be flown. If you do not own this type of flag then yes you would take it down to prevent damage. There not a need to remove an all weather flag from display during rain or such. however there are some additional things that you must be aware of if you take it down at night. These include having a place that the flag can hang in the proper manner within your house or office in which it can dry to prevent mold and mildew from building up on the flag before being folded. However as long as you make sure that the flag is not damaged it is in no way disrespectful to have the American flag fly during a storm. I also advise to use common sense in certain cases for instance if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes and this is the type of storm you are questioning then bring the flag inside for this is one case in which you cannot guarantee the safety of the flag. I hope that this helps shine some light on the subject.

When the colors were posted

When the colors were posted yesterday at the Bataan March out at WSMR, the U.S. Flag was properly placed. My question: Is it acceptable that the New Mexico flag was near twice the size of the U.S. Flag? It sure didn't look proper.

A patch of a flag is not a

A patch of a flag is not a flag. The situation that brings this question out is that a flag in itself cannot be used as clothing. That means that you cannot take a flag, cut it up, make a shirt and wear it. It does not prohibit wearing a flag patch on a uniform.

what is the answer to Mike

what is the answer to Mike Krites question? I have noticed on several TV shows about law enforcement that they do not wear a patch of the American flag - why is that? Also I noticed my local law enforcement does not wear the US flag patch.

No, a whole flag may never be

No, a whole flag may never be worn AS a garment. A complete whole flag emblem IS allowed on uniforms, and is to be placed on the unifrom to look as if it is its own living thing and look as if it is being flown properly. It can be placed horizintal (common) or vertical (rare).

I live in Texas and I noticed

I live in Texas and I noticed a business in the area that had the American Flag & the Mexican flag flying at the same height, on different flag poles, is it against the flag code to do so? The same business also had a Texas flag flying but lower than the Mexican flag, it just does not seem like this would be the correct positioning. Any clarification on these two situations would be greatly appreciated.

According to the Chicago

According to the Chicago regional office of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace."

Thank you for the

Thank you for the clarification. Is it acceptable for the Texas flag to be flown lower than the Mexican flag? They have the US, Mexican & Texas flag displayed with the US & Mexican at the same height but the Texas flag is lower.

According to the Flag Code,

According to the Flag Code, when displaying the US flag with any other flag on separate staffs the US flag should be flown as the first on the left side of anyone viewing the flags. Flags of other countries should always be flown at the same height b ut always to the right of the US flag as viewed by an observer

Ok your saying that I can fly

Ok your saying that I can fly my island flag next to the American flag as long it is properly locate it side by side
I though if your in thus country no flag should fly next to the American flag but underneath please advise
Now my island flag flys underneath

According to the Chicago

According to the Chicago regional office of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace."

t "see half-mast."

t "see half-mast." Definitions for half-mast from those 2 sources:
" The position about halfway up a mast or pole at which a flag is flown as a symbol of mourning for the dead or as a signal of distress. Also called half-staff." The marine thing is false...

The Flag should only be flown

The Flag should only be flown at half-mast at the directive of the President, Governor, Mayor, etc. In other words, it is improper to fly the Flag at half-mast if it is not directed at the general population.

There are other fitting tributes to honor someone else, but they should not dishonor the Flag while trying to honor someone else.

The person who flew this flag

When the honor guard is

When the honor guard is entering the room at a funeral with the American flag, organization banner and two riffles. The American flag enters first then the riffles and banner to be posted, correct? The riffles don't come first then the American flag. Can you please let me know and also where to find the information. Thank you Wendy

I have a question about

I have a question about displaying the flag in a war zone on my compound that I am at in Afghanistan. I raised the flag today in a small ceremony for the first flag displayed at our compound, we can not put a light out at night to illuminate it at night because of air traffic around, and we all have a difficult time about displaying it at night with out disrespecting the colors. Is there a rule or some kind of guidance that you can help us with. We also do not want to take it down and put it up every day do to the missions that are all over, please give some guidance...SSG Bain out..

There is a place in my home

There is a place in my home town who has the American Flag out in front of their business and attached to the back of our glorious flag is the Mexican flag. I was wondering if that is even legal. It is extremely irritating to me and I personally find it very disrespectful. So I would like to know if it is illegal. Thanks

I am not sure why I felt

I am not sure why I felt compelled to do this but when my husband put up my flag pole as I have been asking for many years now he asked me which way to place the pully and I just said to the North of course. I don't know that this is proper etiquitte and it's too late now that it's cemented in place but is this proper? I did make sure he placed it to the left of our main entrance and that there is a street light illuminating it until I can get the spot light I need to illuminate it properly and so that I can fly it 24/7 as I have a great deal of pride in my country and I do not believe I should have to take it down and put it up every single day. Another question I have is on Memorial Day when it is to be flown at half mast but it is already flying do I then lower it and briskly raise it to the peak then to half mast or do I just lower it to half mast? Thank you.

We have an Irish Pub and want

We have an Irish Pub and want to have Irish flags along the outside of the building to draw attention. Is it disrespectful to hang only the Irish flags as they will be up very high and we will not be able to take down at night or provide lighting for the American flag?

I live in a manufactured home

I live in a manufactured home development. We plan to display the American Flag on the properties of our street during holiday periods. The flags are 12"x18" and attached to a 32" pole which will be put into ground so as the flag does not touch the ground. Is it proper to leave these flags overnight without lighting? We were hoping to leave the flags flown for the entire week of the holiday.

I have had the honors of

I have had the honors of being ask to lead the Pledge od Alegence to our montthly meetings of the residents. We have a new President of the Residents Association. I Have been movimng the flag to the right and in front of the podiam for each meeting. Shortly after the meeting came to order I lead the group in the Pledge of Alegence and a Lady Lead the group in the National Antham. The flag was moved to the back of the podiam. Is this proper?

We live in an older home 1760

We live in an older home 1760 and we fly the Grand Union flag. I would like to add the Betsy Ross Flag to the pole which flag should be flown the highest? I would like to fly both flags but do want to do it according to flag etiquette.

I just purchased a home, I

I just purchased a home, I served in the AF for 4 years and Army for 6. I hang an all weather flag and placed it on the left (facing my house, far right looking out of the house) I am not really sure about the height of the inclined pole from the floor. Is it supposed to be half height of the house. If you know please let me know. I want to make sure I an displaying it accordingly and respectfully. Thank you

The pole should not be on any

The pole should not be on any incline, it should be plumb. Height compared to any structure is not an issue and is not in the code as being an issue. As high as your local authorities will allow (for safety).

I was a Marine who served in

I was a Marine who served in Iraq. I have a flag that flew outside my post while I was there, she has several bullet holes in her but I hold on to it because of the memories. Would I be able to display my flag on a wall in the living room or would that be considered disrespectful? If anybody can provide an answer please help. My email is: hardcore0331@aol.com
Semper Fi

Thank you for your service

Thank you for your service Marine,
I have a Flag given to me by my grandfather that has 48 stars. I wanted it preserved and displayed in my "man cave" along with all my other memorabilia of my days in S.E. Asia and other military "stuff". What I discovered is, a flag that has sentimental and historical value can be displayed following the rules of etiquette of a new flag....
...By doing so, you also show honor to those that served under that particular flag.
My answer to your question: It is not disrespectful if done with pride. So, carry on Marine, Semper Fi.

Sir, may I suggest that you

Sir, may I suggest that you place the flag in a tri cornered display case, after folding it. These cases are not only used for display of flags used at funerals but can be used to honorably display a flag that has sentimental value. Thank you for your service.

I am now somewhat concerned

I am now somewhat concerned that I may have done something wrong. My bathroom is decorated with Americana style decor, there are flag craft items, signs reading God bless America, flag wallpaper border, etc. Guests have consistently spoke of the decor in there, sometimes saying they felt like saluting in there. It is decorated in this style out of love and respect for our country. I often find new American items to put in there, and do so. Is this wrong?

If it's done with respect,

If it's done with respect, it's fine. If it makes your friends want to salute, it sounds like you've done a respectful job. Stars and stripes toilet paper, on the other hand... Now, that would be another story.

My sister brought something

My sister brought something to my attention. In the "holiday" section of when Old Glory should be displayed, it mentions Mother's Day, but not Father's Day. I am hoping this is a typo and not a sub to the men of this country.

Susan, Thanks for bringing

Susan, Thanks for bringing this to our attention. I don't think we have updated the U.S. Flag Guide since it was printed in the Almanac. For now, we have updated the holiday list. We'll review it all soon. Thanks, again!

We have all these specific

The ability to burn the flag

The ability to burn the flag (as a protest) is the Free Speech right you have as a citizen of this country. It's odd and doesn't sit well with some of our populace but, it is a right to free speech.

Please know when a flag becomes tattered/frayed/discolored and so forth it should no longer be displayed/flown. The correct term is 'to retire the flag' NOT 'burn it'. Boy Scout troops in your area will be glad to perform the ceremony (it's actually quite moving).

The "ability" to burn the

The "ability" to burn the Flag of the United States in protest is BOGUS. This IS NOT FREE SPEECH!-It is desecrating the Flag that symbolizes our freedom.
Try this---lay our flag down on the ground in front of a Marine. set it on fire--see how fast you get a FREE ride to the promised land.
(The only way our Country's Flag is to be burned is with due ceremony of retirement)

The ability to burn our flag

The ability to burn our flag in protest may be bogus to you, (and I hate the fact that our flags can be burned) but how can we say we are a free country if we are not allowed to burn our symbol of freedom in protest. Do i want our flags burnt........no..........but its our right........and when they start taking our rights away they won't just stop at one. JMHO

The first amendment includes

The first amendment includes "symbolic speech". Flag burning is a form of symbolic speech, like it or not, and has been upheld by the US Supreme Court with ruling like Texas vs Johnson (491 U.S. 397) in 1989 & US vs Eichman (496 U.S. 310) in 1990. This is also why the Flag Desecration Amendment has yet to pass in the Senate. I agree with you that it is very offensive & I personally believe there are more appropriate methods to make a point; it is a person's unalienable right to show their ignorance and disrespect. As far as your Marine situation, I would hope he/she would not respond with violence. 9 out of 10 times that just feeds the protester's point (right or wrong). I would like to think that instead, they would stand proudly while reminding the protester, the ONLY reason the flag can be burned as symbolic speech is because of their service/sacrifice to protect the people's rights and keep our government a democracy.

Pretty much all incorrect.

Many BSA troops are no longer

Many BSA troops are no longer accepting flags for retirement as they are overloaded with nylon all-weather flags that can not be retired via fire. When checking with the troop if they will accept the flag, please let them know if it is nylon. As a Scoutmaster, I have over 50 flags that we have retired with a ceremony, but have not been able to physically retire as the fumes released by the nylon during burning are toxic.

I'm not sure where you're

I'm not sure where you're getting your information,
but good topic. I needs to spend some tim learning much more
or understanding more. Thanks for grea information I was
looking for this info for my mission.

I was at a college

I was at a college commencement ceremony today. While the audience was seated and as the service began, the U.S. Flag was carried down an aisle and taken to the stage then placed in its stand. This was a time that no music was being played. The audience was not asked to 'stand'. Does flag protocol call for people to stand when the flag is carried into an auditorium?

Anytime the Flag is in an

Anytime the Flag is in an auditorium or stadium and is hoisted by the person carrying the flag, you should stand and stay standing until the Flag is either positioned in a stand or until the person carrying it lowers the staff back to the ground.

I have one 16ft flag pole

I have one 16ft flag pole flying the american flag and was looking to get a second one to fly the pow-mia flag. Can i have 2 flag poles and is there a specile they should be placed or can i only have 1 or 3. Please answer thanks so much!!! :)

Two adjacent flagpoles are

Two adjacent flagpoles are fine. Or, you can fly both flags on one pole. For one pole: the U.S. flag should be on top and the POW/MIA flag directly below it.

For two poles: the U.S. flag should be displayed on the pole to the flag's own right (Note: The "flag's own right" is usually the observer's left, as s/he is looking at the flag from the most frequently viewed angle, such as a view from the street. So, for example, two flag poles located in the front yard of a house, as viewed from the street, would have the U.S. flag on the left pole and the POW/MIA flag on the right pole.) The POW/MIA flag, on the other pole, should not be higher than the U.S. flag.

In either case, the POW/MIA flag should be no larger than the U.S. flag.

Ummm. its just a piece of

Ummm. its just a piece of cloth. i mean i understand what it stands for and i respect it but the stupid traditions are just a waste of time. i dont think is disrespectful if it gets a little tear or somthin. it actually makes it look cooler that way haha

Know what HONOR is,

While the flag is cloth, it

While the flag is cloth, it is the representation of what it stands for that commands the respect it should be given (which is your right to do so or not - free speech). Traditions are not stupid but a means to remember/honor as well as to instill values, customs, beliefs and so on.

How lucky for you to live in this country and be able to think and express the thoughts you hold.

While it may be 'cloth' to you, the flag is a representation of the beliefs this nation holds dear as well as the trying times it endured successfully; think! whenever there were horrible moments in our history, someone somewhere raised the flag because it represents our nation - the line from the anthem "the flag was still there" means we will endure...think 9/11: the flag was still there; think any devastating force of nature: the flag was still there; think Boston Marathon: the flag was still there.

IF you respect it as you say

IF you respect it as you say then you would understand. True Americans & those who have fought for OUR freedom would disagree with you without hesitation. The next time you think of a ripped flag looks "cool", think of the mother clutching the folded flag at her son or daughter's grave & then think AGAIN!!!

It was interesting reading

It was interesting reading these comments. It is very clear that this is a very emotional topic. Flags were designed to tell groups of people apart. It gives a visual clue as to where "their" people are.

I do find the current flag worship/obsession to be cause for worry as they people have taken a normal behaviour and carried it to dangerous extremes. Of course we are going to treat our flag with respect - it represents our "group" and we are respectable people. And because it is a representation of our group; the group should control who gets to use the flag.

Where the trouble comes in is when people say they would die for the flag. I am willing to die to defend this country, but the flag? No, the flag is just a symbol. Another problem is when the worshipers/obsessed become abusive towards people who do not feel the same as they do or violate some flag rule.

I hope we can all keep this in perspective. The flag represents the USA and it represents citizens of the USA. It does need to be treated with respect, but not worshiped.

An earlier comment stated

An earlier comment stated that these guidelines were suggestions, not laws.
Well there are laws relating to the displaying of the American Flag.
See the Congressional Research, Service of the Library of Congress, report by James Hall, Legislative Attorney, American Law Division.
I is very explicit and is too long to repeat here ...But I will repeat one short paragraph.
"All the states, at one time or other, have enacted laws relating to the United States flag. Whereas the Federal Flag Code does not provide penalties for certian conduct or may may not govern certain practices, state law may do so. Therefore, it is advisable to consider applicable provisions of state law, as well as federal law on questions of proper use of the flag."
So in most cases the Flag Code is a guide and is purely voluntary to insure proper respect for the flag.
There also is a section of the flag code that addresses the use of the flag in jewelry, commercial products, wearing apparel, and advertising.
Ask at your Congress person's office for a copy of flag displaying guidelines.
They have lots of information they can send to you.
Now would be a good time as they will want to keep you happy.

I will often proudly wear a

I will often proudly wear a hat or tee shirt with the American flag prominent. I don't mean it as disrespect, but as a declaration of my pride. I don't think the Founding Fathers would disapprove of that, considering the sentiment being expressed, and the evolution of our societal ways. While I certainly appreciate and respect tradition, I think the "guidelines" should be flexible in consideration of the intent of the display of "Old Glory". I'm sure the Founding Fathers, or "rule" makers never could have anticipated the many ways Americans would eventually choose to express their love and reverence for our American flag. As a proud veteran of The Vietnam Era, I love wearing the colors and do so whenever and wherever.
Also, the above "rules" neglected to say that when hung vertically, the Union should be on the upper left, as seen by the viewer.
God bless America! Love it or leave it!

My father was in the US Air

My father was in the US Air Force for 22 years and flew for various units of the 6315th Special Operations Group. I was around for 16 of those years before he retired and a year later, I joined the military proudly serving during the Vietnam era and was in-country a couple of times for short periods of time.
All of my life i was told that if the US Flag was to be worn anywhere on an article of clothing, it was to be worn on the left shoulder above any military rank or insignia to signify that I am an American first, US military personnel second.
The stars on the US Flag are to be closest to the heart to show my admiration, love, respect, and protection of the states represented by the stars should the need to protect the states should arise.
I see so many US Military personnel (Officers, NCO's, and Enlisted personnel) walking around today with the US Flag on their right shoulders with the stars close to their backs that I want to dress them down and tell them that if they don't get that flag on their shoulders squared away, I will see to it they are reassigned to Fort Wainwright, Alaska where they will spend the rest of their military career shoveling snow off the sidewalks of the NCO family housing.
As for non-military personnel wearing the US Flag on their clothing, I see this a lot, especially on the BASS circuit, but they are at least wearing them properly and respectfully, honoring all of our past and present US military personnel.

The above rules certainly do

The above rules certainly do specifially adress vertical hangs, and wearing A FLAG as a garment or garment material is prohibited, not merely displaying the image of the WHOLE FLAG as an emblem, that is acceptable.

If you do not honor GOD then

If you do not honor GOD then how can you honor our country? Our constitution is based on God and His precepts. America will fall if people continue to disregard Him. Our flag is a symbol of our faith.Do not dishonor it!

The best way to honor God and

The best way to honor God and Country is to be a good person.
You can be a good person or a bad person whether you claim to be a Christian or not.
The important thing is to respect people of all faiths and orientations.
After all, most of our founding fathers weren't Christians, they were Deists. They understood the critical importance of separation of Church and State. Too bad so many Americans are determined to undermine this critically important pillar of our Democracy.

With all due respect to your

With all due respect to your personal beliefs, you are very seriously mistaken here. According to the First Amendment of the Constitution, Congress shall make no law with regard to religion. The flag is purely a national symbol and has no relationship to your god or your religion whatsoever. The American flag is not a symbol of anything except the United States of America. Faith has nothing to do with it. To place your particular religious beliefs above others in this way is, in my opinion, extremely UN-patriotic and totally UN-American. If you believe in American freedom, that must include the freedom to choose ANY religion or NO religion at all!

As befits Old Glory with

As befits Old Glory with Memorial Day near, I'd ask everyone to listen to or read the lyrics to "Ragged Old Flag" by Johnny Cash.

It is not a long song, but in his own country manner, I think Johnny says a lot in a few words. His song ends with these words:

"So we raise her up every morning, we take her down every night
We don't let her touch the ground and we fold her up right
On second thought, I do like to brag
Cause I'm mighty proud of the Ragged Old Flag"

Through his words, Johnny Cash touches the hearts of every American who has sworn to protect her and every American who has suffered or lost a loved one in her defense. Please have a happy holiday, but do not forget what Memorial Day is really about. Fly your Flag proudly, watch your local parade, thank a veteran or military member you know, and go to your local cemetary and care for the grave of a veteran whose family can't. You will feel the pride of being an American just as Johnny did every time he sang this song. You might just feel your heart skip a beat and find a tiny tear well up in your eyes. There are people behind our America who deserve this one small thought from those of us lucky enough to call ourselves American!

As has been pointed out,

As has been pointed out, these are guidelines, not laws. It is unfortunate that some manufacturers print images of the American flag on all sorts of products, including items (e.g. paper napkins) destined for the kind of use to which our flag should never be subjected (e.g. wiping one's mouth and throwing in the trash).

It is equally unfortunate that citizens purchase these items. If more people were cognizant of the flag code and exercised common sense, perhaps the manufacturers would not sell so many of these products and would have to find another way to make money from patriotism.

Babs Clark really hit the nail on the head. The founders were keenly aware of the bloody religious civil wars which had recently wreaked so much havoc and destruction in Europe and they were determined that religion would be a matter of personal conscience, not government mandate. We must be vigilant to not allow historical revisionists to recreate our nation's history according to their prejudices and preferences.

And we should be equally vigilant about non-fact-based criticisms of our leaders. We might not always agree with them, but we shouldn't just make stuff up. "Free speech" is a poor excuse for slander.

To truly be a flag of the

To truly be a flag of the USA, size, colors and dimension ratio specifications must be met. Just because an item has stars and stripes in red, white and blue does not make it an American flag. Items not meeting the criteria are merely patriotic decorations not subject to the regulations. My choice is to decline to use those items but knowing that they are not really flags helps to ease the sting of seeing others choose to display them in ways that would disrespect a flag.

The US Flag Code is not

The US Flag Code is not regulations nor law, and are not cuurrenty=ly enforcable. Individual State Flag Codes, that is an entirely different matter (when speaking of the repsective STATE flag, and STATE flags only)

I think it depends on the

I think it depends on the family. My family allowed my grandfather's flag to be flown at the local school for many years until it was ultimately retired. My other grandfather's flag is still folded in a case. Personally, I think the choice is about how best to store/use the flag to respect the individual who died and the flag itself.

When considering these rules,

1. These rules were made by joint resolution of Congress in time of war. They were never made into law. Consider them as guidelines, and consider them well.

2. The rules all echo the underlying requirement for freedom (free movement) in the symbolism of the treatment of the flag. TSA, Homeland Security and other police-state agencies should be especially mindful of the freedom underlying the symbolism of the flag.

3. Boycott all products which disrespectfully depict the flag of the USA, especially those manufactured in enemy countries. This small step helps your country in more than a symbolic way.

This all certainly makes for

This all certainly makes for interesting reading! I, too, wish more people were aware of proper flag etiquette and that more flags were displayed at home for our national holidays. This is a good beginning, though.

As to the image of the flag now appearing on everything from paper cups to diapers and every imaginable object in between..... well, remember that we live in a republic which guarantees freedom of speech and, in one sense, you could (albeit loosely!) interpret such uses as examples of the same. Properly speaking, the image of the flag shouldn't be used like this, but then how to account for American flags being depicted in paintings or photographs?

Just like all else, usage of our flag and flag imagery may change over time just as readily as our society itself changes. But... is it still proper or does it become proper through these changes?

It's all about respect.

On the point of what to do

On the point of what to do with an American flag when it is no longer a fitting emblem, please take it to your nearest American Legion Post for the annual ceremony on June the 14th. Also note that burning the American flag is becoming an unacceptable practice (adds to the greenhouse gases that is melting the polar regions and heating up the atmosphere). Probably, Congress should revise their flag's resolution for a more modern day American society. Carried horizontally?; Watch a football game open ceremony. Not used for advertising purposes?; Did you ever see a gal wearing one as a bikini at the beach? Honor the United States of America with a forgiving mind, a loving spirit, and peaceful actions. Then "old gorly" will be the symbol of greatest nation the world has ever known. It is a far better thought that God would bless each and every person on earth than for God to only bless American.

Correction on the last entry

Correction on the last entry of the article..."When the flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferrably by burning." Before you burn our great flag, PLEASE cut the stars section from the stripes. Then you will be burning two pieces of cloth and not our flag.
One other thing of note. I can't remember any other President apologizing to the world for Americans. Please Mr President, don't apologize for me. I'm too proud of my country to ever bow down in humility for being an American.

Right One Sam!

There are protocols as to

There are protocols as to retiring a flag. I remember our troop, armed with scissors, would cut the field (stars) first; then another scout patrol would cut the red stripes and place in a container. White stripes were placed in another container. When all flags were done we took them to an undertaker who volunteered to 'cremate' the piles. The ashes of all these flags (more than 100) were placed in an urn and these were ceremoniously placed on hallowed ground (our local cemetery). All Scouts were duly impressed with an increased awareness of respect and honor.

It's my belief our country is

It's my belief our country is primarily about the freedom of thought and religion. Whether we believe in a 'god' or not, it is our choice. One can still have respect for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness without believing in the supremacy of a supreme being. THAT, to me, is what America is -- the ability to

The settlers came here for

The settlers came here for freedom of religion. The section under god was not original. It was later added! I'm not sure what service you served in but the one I do respects all religions and allows their soldiers to practice freely. The Americas were founded on the separation of church and state!

The phrase "separation of

The phrase "separation of church and state" does not appear anywhere in the United States Constitution. In the First Amendment, however, we are given to believe that no law-maker has the right to choose a national religion for us. Also, I believe that it gives people the right NOT to believe in God. The phrase "separation of church and state" was first seen in a letter which Thomas Jefferson wrote to the Danbury Baptist Association on the first day of 1802—which was nearly 13 years AFTER our Constitution was put into effect on the 4th of March, 1789. (and therefore NOT foundational) He was responding to a letter written to him by the aforementioned association. They were concerned that--in the future--some law-maker or other person in power might see fit to make legislation which dictated how/when/where/with what type of religious group or even if Americans MUST worship.
In his response, Thomas Jefferson attempted to reassure this group by saying,
"Believing with you that religion is a
matter which lies solely between man
and his God, that he owes account to
none other for his faith or his
worship, that the legislative powers
of government reach actions only, and
not opinions, I contemplate with
sovereign reverence that act of the
whole American people which declared
that their legislature would "make no
law respecting an establishment of
religion, or prohibiting the free
exercise thereof," thus building a
wall of separation between Church and
State.”
The First Amendment put boundaries on what could be legislated. It did not, however, in any way, shape, or form allow for people to be berated because they believe that--in a basic way--our Nation was formed on Christian values. Is this a Christian nation? Definitely, it is not anymore. But was it formed by men who knew their Bibles well and who believed in an Almighty Creator and who strove to live lives which honored Him? Why, yes. Yes, it was. I believe that a responsible and honest researcher would find it to be true.
One of my problems is that people have put forth this offal in regard to what 'separation of church and state' meant to the founding fathers (and, therefore, what it should mean to us) and have 'equivocated' its meaning into something more palatable to them for SO long that we’re actually starting to believe the lies. It wasn't supposed to mean that we can't pray in public or in school or have a Bible in public or have the words "In God We Trust" on the walls of governmental buildings. And that is what--mostly thanks to the ACLU--we now have as "truth" in our nation--that Christianity is in no way allowed to even hint at touching anything governmental. Malarkey!! Read the papers of the Founding Fathers of our Nation! Read transcripts of the inaugural speeches of every single American President, even our current one. Phrases such as "...that Almighty Being..." and "...His Providence..." and "...that Being in whose Hands we are..." are found in transcripts of speeches from the earliest presidents of our great nation.
Sadly, we've evolved into a nation wherein Christianity is 'persona non grata.’ God and Christianity are shoved—quickly—into the cupboard under the stairs whilst practically every other type of religion is shown the most comfy chair and given the best food and drink available in our home. It makes zero sense to me is why we're not allowed to pray to God or read our bibles in school, but if we want to get down on a prayer rug three times a day and pray to Allah--well, then that is perfectly acceptable and no one will naysay that at all. But they sure will fight vehemently against any show that someone might love and want to serve the God of the Bible. Do you not see the hypocrisy? It is a shame that—in order to make all groups to feel more welcome—we as a nation must subdue that which has been a part of our society since the very beginning. 
And in regard to the actual subject of the thread and not ‘realitycheck’s comment, I’m glad these rules have been posted. I’m often amazed at how many businesses have Old Glory flying at night without the ‘light shining’ on her.

Well it seems like nobody,

Well it seems like nobody, even the president, follows the Constitution these days so what ever. I wish Ron paul was still in the race, he is the only candidate who planned on following the Constitution.

Honor and pride have been let

Honor and pride have been let down by people we elected to serve this great country. GOD and the American flag are not protected by those we put in charge to do so [no GOD, no pride or honor in USA].
Men have died for both.

A lot of flag rules have been

A lot of flag rules have been dishonored for a very long time. Some of them may or may not be incredulous for our era. Times change but it takes a long time to amend laws and rules of conduct. It's like a lot of rules and laws; not enforced.

I feel they should not put

I feel they should not put "untrue" representations of our American colors on cups, plates, shirts, bandanas you name it. Our colors should only be represented as a flag and not a piece of money collections. If you want to show your pride fly your flag, your American flag properly per proper guidelines. There are proper guidelines available to display correctly.

(Laughing softly) Lee,

(Laughing softly) Lee, Scouts know. While at a parade a civic group came upon me/the unit I serve (Cub Scouts - I in the vintage den mother yellow). I heard one of them say "ask her - she's a scout; she'll know." What they didn't know is I'm also a daughter of a WWII Marine -- know? Heck I live it! Semper Fi and God Bless America